by John Soeder / Plain Dealer Pop Music Critic

Together Through Life Bob Dylan

A funny thing happens at the end of “My Wife’s Home Town,” a Willie Dixon-inspired blues.

Bob Dylan chuckles — a gritty “Heh, heh, heh.”

And why not? “Together Through Life” reverberates with the laid-back sounds of a legend amusing himself with yesteryear balladry (“Life Is Hard”), Tex-Mex swing (“If You Ever Go to Houston”) and rootsy soul (“I Feel a Change Comin’ On”).

The supporting cast includes Grateful Dead collaborator Robert Hunter, who co-wrote lyrics to nine of the 10 tracks. Chances are Dylan won’t be the only one who gets a kick out of the results. Grade: A-